FA tasks Cognizant with 'transforming' digital offering

English soccer’s Football Association is looking to upgrade its digital services with the signing of a new strategic agreement with Cognizant, the professional services company.

Cognizant today became the FA’s digital and digital transformation partner and is to assist the governing body with its digital engagement programme.

The company will have the same role for the FA Cup and Wembley Stadium in London, the home of the England national team.

The FA will work with Cognizant to develop new digital solutions for itself and English county soccer associations.

This includes the relaunch of a mobile version of the FA’s online grassroots soccer platform ‘Full-Time’ and work on the recently created dedicated online portal for women’s soccer players and fans.

Russell James, the FA’s director of digital engagement said: “This is the beginning of a long-term approach, which will be a game changer for all involved in the game from players, volunteers and fans of both men’s and women’s football.

"We will make the football experience easier, more enjoyable for all. By modernising our approach to match how people use mobile devices as part of their everyday life, we will provide meaningful benefits to the game, our partners and the role that The FA and County Football Associations have with the people we are here to serve and inspire.”

The FA’s tie-up with Cognizant follows the signing of a wide-ranging sponsorship deal with LG Electronics, the Korean consumer electronics company.

Under that agreement, which runs until July 2020, LG has become the first official digital screen partner at Wembley, and St George’s Park, the national football centre, with products to be installed in hospitality areas at both venues.